After a couple unforeseen setbacks, Jason Heyward is finally nearing his return to the Los Angeles Dodgers.
Heyward was placed on the 10-day injured list back on April 3 due to lower back tightness and the Dodgers were hopeful that he was going to return sooner rather than later.
However, a combination of Heyward’s prolonged unavailability and the need for a spark to ignite an inconsistent offense opened the door for prospect Andy Pages’ call-up from Triple-A. Pages has seized this opportunity and then some, hitting .308/.337/.526 with four home runs and 13 RBI in 21 games.
Now, Heyward’s body has been responding well to the increased baseball activity, including some live batting practice this weekend in San Diego. It is good news for Heyward’s recovery process, most notably because getting past this stage without lingering soreness has previously caused issues.
Heyward is due for some more live batting practice before heading out for a rehab assignment and if all goes well, he could be back within the next two weeks, according to Jack Harris of the L.A. Times:
Dave Roberts said Jason Heyward is scheduled to do more live BP tomorrow and Monday, then go on a rehab assignment sometime next week
Probably means Heyward will be back in a week or two. And no, Roberts didn't speculate about the potential corresponding move for when he returns
— Jack Harris (@ByJackHarris) May 11, 2024
Bobby Miller is also making steady progress in his return from right shoulder inflammation.
Gavin Stone, James Paxton, and Landon Knack have all stepped up and helped the Dodgers fill the void left by Miller, and L.A. starters have been a major contributor to their recent 14-2 stretch of play.
After Walker Buehler’s recent return, the rotation could soon be further reinforced as Miller is nearing throwing session against hitters in live batting practice, according to Bill Plunkett of the Southern California News Group:
#Dodgers Bobby Miller said he threw 2 simulated IP in his bullpen session Thursday. Will throw another bullpen on Sunday. Facing hitters in live BP situation could be next step
— Bill Plunkett (@billplunkettocr) May 11, 2024
With Buehler back in the fold, the Dodgers have a healthy rotation that is close to what they were projected to have at this point in the season.
Having Miller back as well helps to rebuild the depth that the Dodgers thought they were going to have this season, with a battle-tested Knack waiting in Triple-A waiting in the wings.
Jason Heyward’s return gives Dodgers a decision to make
When Heyward returns, the Dodgers are going to need to make a corresponding move to make room for him on the active roster.
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts did not speculate on what that move will be. A struggling James Outman might be the choice considering that he has Minor League options available and the Dodgers’ team history of highly valuing veteran players, which could save an equally struggling Chris Taylor.
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